With the Neptunes and on his lonesome, Pharrell changed the game with a strong foundation in neo-soul, a rebelliously playful conviction and an adamant liking towards minimalism.

The ‘Modern Mavens’ series is a guide to some of contemporary music’s most definitive artists, going through their catalogues and deciphering their greatest qualities. These artists may not be accepted into the pantheon of the legends yet, but this series makes the case for why they should already be or definitely will be. First up, Sweden’s acoustic leading man.